In today’s economy, one does not have to look far for an out-of-work electrician or side-job construction jockey. It is tempting to hire them in hopes of getting the “same job done for half the price.” We have found that people really do get what they pay for, in the worst meaning of the phrase. Extra costs end up accumulating for corrections and change orders, and no thought is given to the real value of customer service, reliability, warranties, high quality materials, as well as insurances to protect your home and property from unintended damage and unexpected losses.
We often receive phone calls from homeowners who sheepishly admit to hiring a handyman or other non-licensed electrician to do electrical work at their home. Intending to save money, they entrust a non-professional with what they thought was an easy job. Soon they realize the “friend-of-a-friend” is just not up for the task, cannot complete the job in a timely manner (if at all), and is making bigger problems for the homeowner than they bargained for.
When the low-price worker is in over his head and the homeowner is frustrated and upset, it really is a no-win situation. The Licensed Contractor, if willing to get involved at all, is in the middle of a hornets nest while performing the original scope of work in addition to correcting the problems caused by the inexperienced repair person. Hindsight reveals that it would have been better for all involved if the homeowners had hired a professional in the beginning. It could have saved themselves grief, time, money and hassle. Here are some guidelines to help determine when it makes sense to use a Licensed Contractor for your important projects.
Seven Smart Reasons to Use a Licensed Electrical Contractor like Willow Glen Electric
1. We are certified by the state.
Licensed contractors go through a rigorous licensing process to prove to the state that they are capable of serving their community safely and professionally. The California State License Board has determined that the majority of electrical projects are required to be done by a contractor with a current and valid license from California State License Board. You can call 800-321-2752 or go online to verify that a Contractor’s license number is valid and in good standing. Using a Licensed Contractor safeguards and benefits you in many ways.
2. We are properly trained.
When using a licensed contractor, your improvements and repairs will be done by someone who has been properly trained. We have the skills, experience, and knowledge to get your project done at a faster pace and in the most cost-effective manner. We will be able to offer suggestions as to the best installation practices and materials, and can be an invaluable resource to ensure that your job is done right the first time. Licensed Contractors are also troubleshooting experts, allowing us to get to the root of your electrical problem, saving you time, money and frustration.
3. We are up-to-date with National, State, and Local codes.
Licensed Contractors are well versed and up-to-date with the National, State, and Local Codes. These codes exist to help ensure proper installation, function and safety. By using a Licensed Contractor, permits can be pulled and the necessary inspections scheduled and approved. The benefit to getting permits for your project is not only to ensure installations are up-to-code, but also your project is verified as adding to your home’s value when you sell. Additionally, your insurance company is more likely to pay claims on a home that has been repaired properly by licensed, reliable contractors.
4. We carry workers compensation and proper insurance and bonds.
Unlicensed individuals pose a risk to you and your family’s financial security if they become injured while working on your property, if your property is damaged, or if their work is incomplete and/or faulty. Few, if any, unlicensed individuals have a bond, workers compensation, or carry liability insurance, so you are responsible for any injuries or damages that might occur on your property. Insurance claims may be denied if problem arises from work performed by unlicensed workers.
This insurance protects you and your house from any and all injuries or damage that may occur from the construction. Again, to be clear, a contractor without insurance is the same as using a NON-Licensed Contractor; you are assuming large responsibilities as well as the liability for the employees working on the project.
5. You know how to contact us.
Licensed Contractors have a listed phone number, email address, website, and office, allowing you to reach us about questions or issues you may have.
With unlicensed workers, you are taking a chance that they may not be there if you need them to correct a problem caused by their work. They often do not charge enough to feel responsible when work is not up to your satisfaction, and they also can be hard to reach for warranty purposes. If there is a dispute, your claims will be difficult to enforce because unlicensed workers can easily “disappear” when problems arise, and government agencies will not be sympathetic if your contractor is unlicensed.
6. We offer a warranty.
A reputable, licensed contractor will stand behind their work, offering a warranty that guarantees your satisfaction and the proper functioning of all systems that they repaired or installed for a specified period. They are also accountable to the State and local authorities to do right by their customers. Valid claims must be addressed in order to remain in good standing.
7. We take your safety seriously.
The electrical contractor is a specialty contractor; even a “small job” done carelessly or incorrectly can pose serious life-safety and fire hazards. A poor connection point can be the starting point of a house fire. Faulty circuits can damage appliances and electronic devices by delivering the wrong amperage or carrying excess voltage, causing unnecessary replacement costs. For these reasons only knowledgeable, especially training individuals should be trusted with your home and the safety of your family.
About Willow Glen Electric:
Willow Glen Electric, Inc., a family-run business, has been providing quality electrical customer service for residential and light commercial customers since 1987. Their San Jose electricians specialize in 200 Amp panel upgrades, LED lighting systems (new installations and retrofits), whole house re-wires, electrical repairs, safety upgrades, small jobs, fans (all types), and troubleshooting for homes, offices, and small businesses.
Owner Mark Londre has over 38 years of experience in all phases of the electrical trade. Their electricians, as well as their office staff, are well trained, hardworking, dedicated, and professional and are “At Your Service!” for their community’s electrical needs.